Why macramé? Emilia tell us.

Emilia Lorena gave up an executive advertising career in Sydney at just 22 years old to become a full time, self-professed nanna. After a recent move to Burleigh, we sat with Emilia in her new warehouse, Mo’s Desert Clubhouse to talk about her burgeoning career as a macramé artist.

Firstly, why macramé?

I have always been a bit of a nanna! I started knitting at a young age, and as time went on that progressed into different fibres such as ropes, then I eventually ditched the knitting needles and started using my hands. Macramé started for me as a therapy when I was working full time in advertising, and it still is that for me today.

We heard that a trip to Burning Man festival in the USA changed everything for you. What happened?

Absolutely, there is nothing like spending 10 days in the desert at Burning Man to get your creative juices flowing. This festival is like nothing you have have ever seen before. Every single person, tent, theme, expressing their passion in their arts so proudly and powerfully. I came home and was determined to be the best artist I could be by not being held back by what people are and aren’t doing, and just go for it!

It’s also where I became fast friends with Kim and Christian, my now business partners at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse. To be the best artist you can, you need to surround yourself in an environment and by people that inspire you, and sometimes that involves some risks and a leap of faith. We all packed our bags, moved to Burleigh and have spent the last 8 weeks with no sleep and all our dedication (and savings) to transform an old warehouse into the raddest new creative joint on the Gold Coast.

Why has macramé has had a major comeback over the last few years? And where do you see Emilia Lorena heading in the future?

The fundamental knots are so gorgeous and not that difficult once you know what you are doing. It’s so therapeutic and fun, especially when you do it with a bunch of friends. I see things differently too, finding inspiration through scenery, shapes and day to day life.

I love teaching the craft of macramé and really enjoy hosting workshops. So I see many more hens parties and macramé workshops in the future. I also love styling events like working with brides on creating their perfect ceremony setting.

And finally, you have a workshop coming up! When, where and how do we sign up?

Thursday 3rd August, 6-9PM at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, Burleigh Heads. We eat cheese, drink wine and make art. Book you and your girlfriends a spot now!